Leadership change at the 130-year-old footwear giant: Former ECCO CEO Panos Mytaros has been appointed as the new Global Chief Executive Officer of Bata Group, effective September 15, 2025.
Bata Group has announced the appointment of Panos Mytaros as the new Global CEO, effective September 15, 2025, replacing Sandeep Kataria, who has served in the role since 2020.
During his tenure, Kataria successfully navigated the challenges of a global pandemic, accelerated Bata’s digital transformation, streamlined operations, entered new markets, and modernized business practices to lay the foundation for future growth. Reflecting on his journey, Kataria said, “Bata is more than just a great company; it is a community, a legacy. Leading this incredible team has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.”
The incoming CEO, Panos Mytaros, brings over 30 years of international experience in the footwear and leather industry. He is best known for his leadership at ECCO, where he served in several senior roles, including CEO from 2021 to 2024.
Graham Allan, Chairman of Bata Group, commented:
“Panos is a proven leader with deep industry knowledge and a strong passion for craftsmanship. His track record in brand development and managing global organizations makes him the perfect choice to guide Bata through its next growth phase.”
Expressing his excitement, Panos Mytaros said:
“Bata is a brand I’ve known and respected since the early days of my career. With a 130-year legacy, a presence in nearly 50 countries, and millions of loyal customers, it’s an honor to join this global family. I look forward to working closely with Bata’s teams to deliver modern, comfortable, and affordable footwear to the world.”
